It’s no secret that the Las Vegas Raiders desperately need help across the board defensively. Las Vegas defenders were often out of place and seemed to struggle to adapt to former defensive coordinator Paul Guenther’s complex scheme. Micah Parsons could be a potential fit in the NFL Draft.

To attempt to fix this, Jon Gruden brought in Gus Bradley and his Cover 3 scheme to attempt to simplify the defense. In any defense, complex or simple, you need players who can make plays. The Raiders currently have maybe one or two guys who can do that and that is not going to cut it in the AFC.

Enter Micah Parsons.

Parsons is viewed quite favorably in the scouting world. And popular sites such as Pro Football Focus has even gone so far to call him the best linebacker they have ever scouted. At first glance, you may think that the odds of him falling to pick No. 17 seem remote, but with the run on quarterbacks and offensive tackles, it could become a strong possibility.

The 6-foot-3, 240-pound linebacker is an absolute prototype for the position. His sideline to sideline speed is not something you see coming out of the draft every year. He has the ability to be lined up on the edge and rush the passer.

He has limited coverage experience, but had success when given the chance. Parsons also has the ability to make an impact as a blitzer. Parsons blows up running plays as if he knew the call beforehand.

More than anything, the Raiders need an edge rusher. They may not need a linebacker more than other positions, but Micah Parsons is simply a different breed. The Raiders won’t trade up to draft him, but if he falls to them, they won’t pass him up.

Mike Mayock and Jon Gruden love their prospects from big, successful programs. They love players that play with their hair on fire. They love players that fit the mystique of the 1970’s Raiders who put fear into their opponents.

And they simply love players that can play. And let there be no doubt about it, Micah Parsons can play.